Apple Expo 2008 apparently worthwhile despite lack of Apple

Although Apple didn't feel like making an appearance at this year's Apple Expo …

In case you didn't have it on your calendar, the annual Apple Expo took place last week in Paris. The conference usually features a lot of software and iPod/iPhone accessories, and this year was no different. But if flying to France for a few days of Apple excitement was a little much for your budget and you missed the show, never fear. TechRadar UK did attend Apple Expo and has summarized the event, in addition to highlighting some of the better products that were displayed.

One big name that wasn't in attendance this year was Apple, which announced this summer that it would be taking a pass on the conference. That didn't stop other big names in the Apple world from showing up, though, and Quark, Griffin, Macally, and Adobe were all present. In the iPod/iPhone accessories department, Griffin displayed an iPhone case with a "macro" lens cover, and also had a clear iPhone stand that passively amplifies the iPhone's speaker. Macally also had some nifty accessories, including an all-in-one offering with a USB port, Dock connector, flash storage, and a battery, which can be used to store files or charge an iPod while out and about.

Iomega showed off a new hard drive inspired by the MacBook Air and Crumpler had a few new bags on display, but there was also software to be had. Quark was showing off its latest release, and VMware was happy you demonstrate the new Fusion 2.0. Overall, TechRader found the show to be worthwhile, since the small show space was chock full of vendors with new Apple-related products. I doubt that the positive press will entice Apple back to the show, though.